Immigration experts have predicted that the demand for the Emirates’ long-term residency programs, like Golden, Freelance, and Remote Work visas, is set to increase. This statement from them came after the US announced a hefty $100,000 application fee for new H-1B visa applications.
Dubai-based advisory firm JSB’s founder and MD, Mr. Gaurav Keswani, expressed his thoughts on the rising H-1B visa request fees. He said there has already been a significant rise in inquiries about the UAE Golden Visa from the US. He also said that the sharp hike in H-1B fees could make H-1B visa and Green Card holders show interest in securing long-term residency in the Emirates by exploring the investment and other requirements linked with these programs.
In a discussion Keswani said the demand for Golden, Freelance, and other Emirati programs is likely to grow. He told that several US workers may either start a small business in the country or simply apply for a Freelance visa. These possibilities will naturally lead to higher demands for these residency options.
Rising UAE Visa Demand Among US-Based Indians
Mr. Keswani also highlighted that the Emirates offers better opportunities for non-resident Indians. US-based Indians are allowed to open a US dollar account in the country, and as the dollar-dirham is pegged, currency exchange will not be a major issue for them. He added that the lifestyle they are enjoying in the US is almost the same here.
Keswani, whose company has expertise in offering customized company formation and visa services, also highlighted that his US-based clients, particularly Indians, are now the second-largest group inquiring about UAE long-term residency programmes.
Keswani added that even US Green Card holders are worrying about future policy changes in the country, and are showing interest in securing UAE residency as an alternative option. Giving an example to explain the demand, he said that earlier, out of the 100 inquiries from US applicants, almost 15-16 would convert to actual UAE residency applications. However, the number has now increased to 35.
UAE Visas Attract Increasing Interest Worldwide
Shayan Sultan, Partner at Fragomen, a globally leading immigration services provider, said that the $100,000 H-1B visa application fee is a major change in the US immigration policy that has attracted global notice. He added that although it is very early to predict the long-term impact on UAE visa demand now, the Emirates will remain a highly attractive destination for skilled professionals and investors.
The UAE offers several long-term residency programs, like property investment-linked visas and visas with remote work options, making the country a place where they can secure desirable growth in their careers to enjoy a high-end lifestyle. For highly skilled professionals in the IT sector who are looking for global mobility options, the Emirati visa is a perfect option. He also added that the country promises expats strong safety, offers tax benefits, and has top-notch healthcare and education facilities, making it a more appealing choice.
Sultan admitted that although residency-by-investment and remote work visa schemes are also offered by other countries across the world, the UAE stands out among them. He added that after the rise in H-1B visa fees, they are expecting a great increase in inquiries and applications for UAE long-term residency visa options, especially from skilled IT professionals.
Skilled Professionals Turn to the UAE Amid H-1B Fee Hike
Cleartrip Arabia’s CFO, Sameer Bagul, highlighted that the hefty increase in the H-1B visa fee for new applicants made US job opportunities less feasible, particularly for Indian IT service firms and mid-level professionals. He added that the UAE’s Golden Visa program is available for skilled professionals, scientists, investors, and visionary entrepreneurs. Not only does this not require large investment amounts, but also they are not tied to a specific employer.
He also highlighted other factors that can compel skilled workers from the US to move to the Emirates. He said that the Emirati government is actively investing in startups and digital transformation initiatives. This is creating new and better job opportunities for AI specialists, developers, and cybersecurity experts. He also added that the major investments are being made in AI, fintech, and the e-commerce sector in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which mainly focus on strengthening the Emirates’ position as an attractive innovation hub. Many entrepreneurs moving to the UAE under these programs could eventually create the best startup story, further strengthening the country’s reputation as a global hub for innovation.
Bagul also mentioned in his discussion that not all talented professionals will shift from H-1B to the UAE visa programs, but also highlighted that the Emirates is increasing its appeal as a top destination for global tech workers. Working in the US is not only costlier but also more restrictive. The country’s open economy, strong growth, and flexible visa options are some other factors that make it a more attractive option for those looking for better opportunities in IT and knowledge-based roles.
Among all the H-1B visa alternatives, the UAE long-term residency options, like the Golden Visa, are most compelling for those looking for stable growth and better opportunities. It is expected that if US immigration policies become stricter, the interest of international talent in the Emirates will continue to increase.
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